Reverse: A distyle temple with two highly stylized Corinthian columns. A helmeted female holding shield and spear, equal in height to the central space, stands in contrapposto with her right hand outstretched over a lighted altar.

Legend: COS (left) and III (right), or “consul for the third time,” in the field.

This text was prepared by Jingwei Pan, Class of 2014.

Label

During his reign from 117 to 138 CE, Hadrian abandoned his predecessor’s expansionist policy and instead established one of defense and consolidation. His coinage reflects his extensive travels as well as his personal inclination toward Greek culture. In this cistophor, Hadrian is shown in profile with a wreath around his head. His bearded face demonstrates his philhellenism (“love of Greek culture”) by alluding to the bearded Greek philosophers. His portrait is extremely similar to those carved of marble in the round with the same recognizable features and attributes.

This text was prepared by Mellon Special Projects Curatorial Intern Kasia Vincunas.